Happy New Year!

Since it is the new year, everyone is making or will be making a new resolution. I have also been thinking about my resolution, if any, for the year. I have thought about my goals and plans and how they will change my life for the better.

As I listened to a pastor’s New Year’s Eve sermon, it caused me to consider a spiritual resolution rather than the typical one. His current theme is “A Season of Transition” and his first point was to Prepare. His focus scripture was Joshua 1:11. He admonished the congregation to prepare for the transition – prepare for where God is taking them. This has been my mindset for a while, but I must admit that I have been inconsistent. As the pastor encouraged the congregation, I considered how I would prepare for my transition. He encouraged the congregation to be ready to move when it was time. We cannot wait until the opportunity comes to try and make room or adjust. It will be too late, and the opportunity may pass us by. This sermon helped me realize that I needed a new resolution.

First, I have resolved to figure out why I am procrastinating. I am considering the issues or factors that are causing me to procrastinate. What is causing me to delay preparing for my next assignment? Is it technology – my cell phone, social media, television, or the computer? Is it psychological – fear, doubt, anxiety, or depression? Is it emotional – resentment, anger, animosity, or unresolved pain? Whatever it is, I must find a way to settle these issues and minimize these factors so that they no longer hinder my progression.

Second, once I have figured out my issue, I have resolved to create boundaries to limit the distractions and factors that are preventing me from doing the necessary preparation. One thing that I have noticed, I have become enamored with this new game I have on my phone. I get so excited to play it. It has been a way for me to release the stress of my day. Unfortunately, before I know it, I have spent more time on my phone than I have on my knees where my stress should be relieved. I may spend a couple of minutes here and there which can become a couple of hours. All that time I could spend with the Father who would shower me with the peace that I am seeking mindlessly lost in the game. I am not saying that this is wrong to play games on my phone, but everything has its time and place. I must remember that this is just another way for the enemy to lure me away from my purpose and keep me focused on the trivial instead of the Magnificent. Therefore, I have resolved to pick my phone up less and reach for my Bible more. I can play my game every now and then, but not so much that it compromises my time spent developing my relationship with the Father. Yes, I know. I could use the Bible app on my phone, but there is too much temptation to become distracted by an email, a text, or my game!

What will your resolution be? Whatever it is, I hope that it will have a lasting impact on your life and those you encounter.

My friends, I want to say thank you to each of you for your continued support and encouragement. It has not been easy to stay focused with all the distractions that came my way in 2022. Your prayers and positive feedback have motivated me to continue this journey. I pray that God would richly bless you with His Provision, Protection, and Peace. I pray that your Joy may be full in Him. I pray that you will continue your walk of faith and boldly execute the assignment that He has given you. I ask for your continued prayers for my life and that I will continue to grow and learn so that my words will have an impact and speak the truth. I have no idea where it will lead, but I know if God is leading me and I am following Him, I will get there.

Please let me know if or how I can pray for you in the coming year. If these moments of transparency have encouraged you, please share them with a friend or someone else who needs encouragement to continue the journey.

Again, I thank you all for blessing me with your love and support. I am honored and grateful.

May God bless you and keep you.

An Unearthed Diamond,

Kim